Independence and transparency are key to judicial reform

Independent judgment and transparency are central to the reform of China's judicial system, said an article in the Southern Metropolis Daily (excerpts below).

Zhou Qiang, chief judge of the Supreme People's Court, emphasized in a recent speech that the administration of justice should be in accordance with the law. He pointed out that independent judgment is the foundation for justice.

Zhou discussed the public's expectation for the reform of the judicial system. A series of unjust trials and cases showed the necessity for judicial reform.

There should be an accountability system for judicial officials. When some unjust cases are uncovered, the judicial authority should punish those responsible.

China's judicial reform should be accompanied by reforms in the public security and procuratorate systems. And the judges must fend off interference from government departments in their judgments.

Judicial reform should also open for public scrutiny and supervision. Transparency is an effective way to avoid unjust judgments.

Hopefully, Zhou Qiang can maintain the momentum of reform and establish people's confidence in the courts and judges.

When the courts, rather than governments, become the first choice for people to redress injustice, China's judicial system will have fulfilled its duties.